The cows meandered slowly down to the river bank opposite The Victoria Arms and set up shop, knee deep in the water they drank, splashed and watched us unremittingly. Tourists rushed down to take a photo, but the herd cared less, their unwavering gaze continuing unabated, even when groups of punters pulled in for some refreshments.
What a scene, so unmistakably Oxfordian you couldn’t make it up, and all ours for the taking. So regardless of its out of the way location, The Victoria Arms in Marston is still easily accessible from the ring road, Headington and the city centre, or of course via the river, and hence constantly busy, especially when the sun’s out.
Inside, The Victoria Arms is all wooden panelling, fireplaces, separate snugs, books, rugs, eating areas and a huge bar where you order. But framing the river bank is a vast, picturesque indoor/outdoor eating area – weather proof with plate glass windows – and then a slope down to the picnic tables and colourful umbrellas below.
Where to sit is therefore a big consideration, and over the past few weeks we’ve tried all the options, pints down by the river, watching people punting or rowing past, idling their afternoons away.
But when peckish on a Monday, when so many restaurants and pubs are closed, we popped in for lunch, their all day dining menu a big plus, choosing one of the outdoor tables down the side at the top from where we could still enjoy the views.
The menu had a bit of everything, it’s a Butcombe pub so all the classics were there, and we would’ve loved a burger but honestly it was peak heatwave and our appetites were already limited.
Instead we opted for the cold mezze – sweet potato hummus and falafel, tahini yoghurt, za’atar flatbread, olives and focaccia (£17.90) and jugs and jugs of iced water.
Plus a side of spiced corn ribs with jalapeno mayo, some truffle fries with Pecorino, aioli and chives and a cheese toastie. And you know what? It hit the spot. Easily assembled yes, and perhaps lacking finesse, but actually it was exactly what we needed.
Besides, sometimes pub grub with a cold pint is all you want. Throw in a view to lose yourself in, and we were happy as Larry.
The Victoria Arms is at Mill Ln, Oxford OX3 0PZ. Go to https://butcombe.com/the-victoria-arms-oxfordshire
